NEW YORK, NY – The Chicago Blackhawks inked defenseman Brian Campbell to 7-year deal and that, the first big move of the free agency season, probably forced general manager Glen Sather of the New York Rangers to go to his backup plan for the back line.
On Tuesday, the Rangers announced they had signed Wade Redden to a 6-year deal worth an average of $6.5 million per year. In addition to Redden, the Rangers resigned defenseman Michal Rozsival to a new contract for $20 million over four years. The two signings clearly give the Rangers a pair of anchors for the blueline in the 2008-2009 season on Broadway.
Redden, who has appeared in two All-Star games, led the Ottawa Senators’ defensive efforts in 2007-2008 and skated in 80 games collecting 38 points on six goals and was a plus-11.
For the second free agency season in a row, the Rangers have made what seems a sensible deal and not lost their heads over mediocre talent. Redden will add value to the defensive efforts for the Blueshirts and will certainly compliment a young and talented defensive corps including Fedor Tyutin, Daniel Girardi and Marc Stahl.
Contact the author at lm.davis@prohockeynews.com.
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